BMW's M2 proves good things do come in small packages

2016 BMW M2

2016 BMW M2

BMW's M2 takes the uproarious M4 engine and mates it to the diminutive 2 Series.

2016 BMW M2

BMW's M2 takes the uproarious M4 engine and mates it to the diminutive 2 Series.

2016 BMW M2

BMW's M2 takes the uproarious M4 engine and mates it to the diminutive 2 Series.

2016 BMW M2

BMW's M2 takes the uproarious M4 engine and mates it to the diminutive 2 Series.

p90199661_highres

BMW's M2 takes the uproarious M4 engine and mates it to the diminutive 2 Series.

p90199666_highres

BMW's M2 takes the uproarious M4 engine and mates it to the diminutive 2 Series.

p90199697_highres

BMW's M2 takes the uproarious M4 engine and mates it to the diminutive 2 Series.

p90199680_highres

BMW's M2 takes the uproarious M4 engine and mates it to the diminutive 2 Series.

p90199681_highres

BMW's M2 takes the uproarious M4 engine and mates it to the diminutive 2 Series.

p90199663_highres

BMW's M2 takes the uproarious M4 engine and mates it to the diminutive 2 Series.

p90199682_highres

BMW's M2 takes the uproarious M4 engine and mates it to the diminutive 2 Series.

p90199716_highres

BMW's M2 takes the uproarious M4 engine and mates it to the diminutive 2 Series.

Most the time, those who advocate the concept that "good things come in small packages" are just wrong. After all, no one wants a small cake. However, in the case of BMW's latest creation, it's spot-on. It's called the M2 and it takes the brand's entry-level 2 Series coupe and turns it into a track- and road-going dynamo, as it combines the 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder of the M4 with the diminutive body of the 2 Series.

The turbocharged all-aluminum engine beneath the relatively long hood of the M2 produces an impressive 365 horsepower and 343 pound-feet of torque. During a turbo trick BMW calls "overboost," the engine can produce a neck-wrenching 369 pound-feet of torque. When bolted to the optional M DCT (dual-clutch transmission), these power output numbers are good for a 0 to 60 mph time of 4.2 seconds. When fitted with the standard 6-speed manual gearbox, that 0 to 60 mph time falls to a still-lightning-fast 4.4 seconds.

Buyers can choose from either a 6-speed manual gearbox or an even faster M DCT transmission

If you're wondering why on earth someone would stick with the slower manual gearbox, you might want to wait before posing such a silly question. Although the M2 might be slower when shifted by manual power, it offers the driver a far more engaging feel. This means that while it might not be faster in actuality, it will feel faster. With something called "rev matching," the engine will automatically blip the throttle on downshifts for the driver, ensuring every shift is a perfect one. Additionally, the innards of the the manual transmission have been coated in carbon fiber, which make shifts even smoother.

Once the power has left either the M DCT or manual gearbox, it's sent to the Active M Differential at the rear wheels. Rather than simply routing power out to both wheels, the differential uses electronics to improve traction. For example, in extreme or slippery road conditions, the differential can effectively lock down one wheel — exerting as much as 1834 pound-feet of torque and keeping it from spinning.

The new model boasts sliding safely thanks to the Active M Differential.

Image: BMW

The M2 has also been fitted with another piece of electro-mechanical wizardry: electric power steering. Essentially, it does away with the heavy, inefficient hydraulic power steering of old. Not only does this system not leak red oil when it brakes, it saves as much as 0.6 mpg. Some driving purists will dismiss the system for being lifeless. But with the push of a button, drivers can change the weight of the M2's power steering. So, even if you don't love it at first, you'll be able to dial in a feel you enjoy.

Now, I know I've not yet gotten to the looks, which are sort of self-explanatory, I figure. BMW says the car's lines draw inspiration from such historic BMW models as the 2002 Turbo and the 3.0 CSL. I don't quite see it, aside from the wheel arch gills. Instead, I believe it looks like a sportier 2 Series, which it is. Although I love the side lines, I will admit they appear a bit 2015 Mustang-y. I do, however, love the high-gloss chrome exhausts, the sound of which, like the steering, can be dialed into the driver's liking thanks to electronically controlled flaps in the exhaust.

If you're already customizing your M2 in your head, you should know that it will be offered in four colors: Long Beach Blue metallic, Alpine White, Black Sapphire metallic and Mineral Grey metallic. As for pricing, BMW hasn't yet released any — as it's waiting to punch numbers until closer to the on-sale date.

Mashable
is a global, multi-platform media and entertainment company. Powered by its own proprietary technology, Mashable is the go-to source for tech, digital culture and entertainment content for its dedicated and influential audience around the globe.